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The Best Easy Cheesecake Recipe

4.9 from 57 reviews

A simple and delicious cheesecake recipe featuring a homemade graham cracker crust and creamy, smooth filling. Perfect for any occasion, this cheesecake pairs wonderfully with various toppings like berries, caramel, and whipped cream.

Ingredients

Scale

Crust

  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 1012 sheets)
  • 4 Tbsp granulated sugar
  • 6 Tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Filling

  • 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 eggs, at room temperature
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract

Toppings (optional)

  • Berries
  • Caramel sauce
  • Chocolate chips
  • Lemon curd
  • Whipped cream

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the cheesecake.
  2. Prepare Graham Cracker Crust: Using a food processor, pulse the graham cracker sheets until they are fine crumbs. Then add sugar, vanilla extract, and melted butter. Pulse again until the mixture is well combined.
  3. Form the Crust: Pour the graham cracker crumb mixture into a baking dish. Press the crumbs firmly into the bottom and up the sides of the dish to create an even crust. Set aside.
  4. Beat Cream Cheese: Using a hand or stand mixer, beat the softened cream cheese on low speed for 5-10 seconds until smooth.
  5. Add Sugar and Vanilla: Slowly add the granulated sugar to the cream cheese while mixing on low speed. Scrape down the bowl as needed. Add vanilla extract and mix until fully incorporated.
  6. Add Eggs: Add eggs one at a time into the mixture, beating after each addition on low speed. Scrape the sides of the bowl and mix until the filling is silky smooth and evenly combined.
  7. Assemble Cheesecake: Pour the cream cheese filling over the prepared graham cracker crust. Spread it evenly with a spatula.
  8. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 22-25 minutes, or until the center slightly jiggles when the dish is gently moved. Approximately 24 minutes works best.
  9. Cool Gradually in Oven: Turn off the oven and crack the door open. Let the cheesecake cool slowly inside for 45-60 minutes to prevent cracking.
  10. Cool at Room Temperature: Remove the cheesecake from the oven and continue cooling on the counter until it reaches room temperature.
  11. Chill: Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow flavors to develop and set properly.
  12. Serve: Slice and serve the cheesecake with your choice of toppings like berries, caramel sauce, chocolate chips, lemon curd, or whipped cream.
  13. Store Leftovers: Keep any leftover cheesecake refrigerated to maintain freshness.

Notes

  • For best results, ensure cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature before mixing.
  • Cooling the cheesecake gradually helps prevent cracks.
  • Chilling overnight enhances flavor and texture.
  • Use a springform pan if you have one for easier removal.
  • Feel free to experiment with different toppings to personalize your cheesecake.

Keywords: cheesecake, easy cheesecake recipe, homemade cheesecake, graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake, classic dessert